Yousuf to play second England Test

Recalled Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf flies to London Thursday to join his embattled team ahead of the second Test against England, which starts in Birmingham a day later.

Yousuf, who turns 37 later this month, was recalled from retirement on Sunday, hours after Pakistan's crushing 354-run defeat in the first Test at Nottingham, giving England a 1-0 lead in the four-match series.

The veteran batsman had been banned for an indefinite period in March following Pakistan's disastrous tour of Australia, where the team lost all three Tests, five one-day and a Twenty20 international. Yousuf led the team in all but the last two limited overs matches.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has also dropped veteran leg-spinner Danish Kaneria for teenage left-arm spinner Raza Hasan in the squad currently in England.

"Yousuf is flying to London and is expected to reach Birmingham late Thursday and once he reaches here we will decide about his inclusion in the second Test," Pakistan team manager Yawar Saeed told AFP from Birmingham.

Spinner Hasan, already in England, will need a change in his UK visa before being able to play.

"We have already requested for a change in Hasan's visa so that he can play," said Saeed.

Pakistan captain Salman Butt has warned the team that Yousuf alone will not be able to change the batting fortunes after they were dismissed for 80 in the second innings at Nottingham.

Yousuf said last month he wanted to play for Pakistan again.

"I can play under any captain and have never felt degraded playing under anyone. I am available to play for the team if invited with respect," said Yousuf, after reports of his recall.